KEARNEY, Neb. — A staple on the high school football sidelines in Central Nebraska has passed away.

Matt Johnson died on Monday at Kearney Regional Medical Center at the age of 51. Johnson used a wheelchair to get around ever since an ATV accident when he was 20 years old. Johnson was known throughout Kearney and the surrounding areas as an assistant football coach at Kearney Catholic. He started coaching the Stars in 2010 and stayed with the team for 14 seasons. Johnson also assisted with the track and field team.

“Coach Johnson was an inspiration to many,” Activities Director Rick Petri said. “His willingness to share his experience and challenge students to make the best of their opportunities not only in athletics but in life as well was such an optimistic message. Those of us that interacted with Matt know what a positive impact he had on others.”

Beyond coaching at Kearney Catholic, Johnson also worked as a substitute teacher and led a two-week summer camp for area athletes at points during his career. He was a graduate of Callaway High School and the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

Funeral details are available in his obituary.